A woman in China developed snake-like patterns on her skin after years of self-treatment, according to the South China Morning Post.

Media reports say the 40-year-old woman was admitted to a hospital with extensive purple-red markings covering her entire body, which doctors described as resembling “snake skin.” The woman said her skin problems began in 2015 with itching and red spots on her leg. Instead of seeking medical help, she purchased an ointment online advertised as a “pure herbal remedy” that could cure all skin diseases.

“When I first started using it, the anti-itching effect was amazing. I thought I had finally found the right medicine,” the patient said.

She continued to use the cream for ten years, spending a total of around $14,000, but her condition recently deteriorated sharply. In addition to severe skin lesions, she developed swelling, nausea, vomiting, and numbness in her hands.

After examination, dermatologists diagnosed her with secondary adrenal insufficiency, a serious condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. The doctor explained that many so-called “herbal” creams sold online actually contain potent steroids not disclosed by the manufacturer.

“Steroids can indeed quickly relieve itching and redness, but prolonged use leads to skin dependence and, over time, accumulates in the body, suppressing adrenal function and causing irreversible damage,” the doctor warned.

Following a course of hospital treatment, the woman’s condition began to improve.